Robert G. Thruston

1934 - 2018

October 4, 1934 - July 9, 2018 Robert George Thruston, former Superintendent of the Southern Pacific Railroad, Los Angeles Division, passed away peacefully at his home in Palm Desert, California, surrounded by his family. He was 83. Bob was born in Oakland, California, to George and Frances Thruston. He graduated in 1952 from Castlemont High School, and attended San Francisco State and San Jose State Universities. He served in the United States Army from 1957-1959. In 1966 he attended Harvard University Graduate School of Business Administration. Bob returned to college in 1973 obtaining a degree in aviation while earning his commercial pilot certificate. Bob's career with the Southern Pacific Railroad spanned over 40 years. He began as a brakeman in 1955, and from 1971-1979 served as the LA Division Superintendent. At the time of his retirement in 1996 he was SP's Vice President of Mexico, and President of Southern Pacific International. His high level of expertise was sought after by automotive and petroleum based companies in North America, Europe, and Asia. Known by everyone as the consummate gentleman, Bob was deeply loved and adored. Bob is survived by his loving wife of 36 years, Antonia; his daughters Christine Sykes (Robert) and Corinne Russell (Mark); and stepdaughter Simone Echeguren (Alex). "Bob-Bob," as he is affectionately known, also leaves his grandchildren Andrew Echeguren, Chad Sykes (Karis), Kevin Sykes, and Chelse Russell. He is also survived by his sister Janice Schwartz (Jim), and the mother of his children, Veronica Thruston. Funeral services will be held at 11am, Monday, July 23, 2018 at Mountain View Cemetery in Oakland. In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be made to the charity of their choice.